Happy Halloween!

Since I’ll be busy all day, dressing only slightly less frighteningly than my standard get-up, dipping my hand repeatedly into a plastic pumpkin filled with Reese’s, Butterfingers, and Kit Kats, and singing Thriller at decibel only dogs can hear, I thought I’d leave you with a meal that requires very little effort and almost no hands-on time: Slow Cooked Beef Chili.

After all, it’s what I’ll be celebrating Halloween with, other than a sugar coma.

It’s a gem for a crisp fall day, a bowlful to warm you from the inside out. It’s the kind of meal that makes you consider the slow cooker among your most beloved possessions, after your Chi hair straightener. Beef that is slowly simmered for hours on end, winds up so unbearably tender that it flakes with the nudge of a fork. A coupling of crushed and diced tomatoes gives the whole pot a thick, welcomed chunkiness. And the blend of brown sugar, cumin, chili powder, and paprika lends a smoky-sweet depth of spice. All at once rich and robust. I find the balance of flavors to be uniquely satisfying, perhaps more than most meals.

And what is chili but a vehicle for toppings? I’ve added shredded extra sharp cheddar, scallion confetti, and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!

Slow Cooked Beef Chili

Gather your A-team.

In the base of your slow cooker, add chopped veggies (any you have on hand will work), chunks of beef, and a can of kidney beans.

I will have to try this. I love making chili but I normally use ground beef. I think I would like this much better! I love your amazing recipes. They all look so good and wholesome. No more powdered chili seasonings for me!

Double Feature Midnight Movies at the Spider House February 2010.
The Mad Ghoul (1943) This creepy tale follows a mad professor, played by
George Zucco, who has discovered an ancient Egyptian gas that
turns anyone who sniffs it into a heart-eating zombie. In this article we are
going to focus on benefits of hotwifing to women.